Spring Break Safety: Avoiding Impaired Drivers

Spring break is a time for many to enjoy the sunshine, fun activities, and relaxation. But it’s also important to be aware of potential hazards that can come with a large influx of young people driving in unfamiliar places.

Being aware of your environment and taking steps to stay safe can help you have an enjoyable and accident-free spring break.

Our personal injury lawyers at Mickey Keenan P.A. offer advice on how to stay safe during spring break 2023.

Spring Break: Safeguard Yourself Against the Dangers of Impaired Drivers

As the days get longer and temperatures begin to rise, many are eagerly anticipating the much-needed respite of spring break. For those of you who will be traveling during this time, it’s important to protect yourself from potential accidents caused by drunk drivers.

You must stay alert and take precautions to ensure your safety during spring break.

The most important way to avoid these dangerous drivers is to remain vigilant while on the road.

• Pay attention to other vehicles on the road and look out for signs like weaving within a lane, running red lights or stop signs, tailgating, or excessive speeding.
• Always wear your seatbelt—it could save your life in the event of an accident with an intoxicated driver.
• It is also wise to avoid driving late at night or early in the morning when there are more likely to be drunk drivers on the road.

It’s easy for celebrations and partying on spring break to get out of hand, especially when alcohol is involved. Driving while intoxicated isn’t only dangerous – it’s illegal, which means you could face serious charges if caught behind the wheel while under the influence.

Further, if you witness someone drinking and driving, or if someone else is putting your life at risk by driving under the influence, contact the police immediately.

The Signs of Impaired Drivers

Impaired, when referred to driving, most often refers to drivers who are operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It can also describe a driver who is having difficulty driving due to drowsiness, confusion, distracted driving, and talking or texting on a mobile device.

Drugs & alcohol use can lead to dangerous decisions behind the wheel, resulting in motor vehicle accidents that can cause serious injury or even death.

When on spring break, it is important to stay alert at all times—even as a pedestrian. Some of the factors to look for when identifying an impaired driver include:

• Drivers who are driving too slowly or speeding: This also includes drivers who are stopping suddenly for no apparent reason or driving fast then slow erratically.
• Drivers drifting in and out of traffic lanes: This could be a sign of intoxication.
• Drivers behaving unusually: This includes stopping at green lights or speeding through a stop sign.
• Aggressive drivers: This can include following too closely, passing in an unsafe way, etc.

What to Do if You See a Potentially Impaired Driver

If you notice a driver that appears to be under the influence, you should take the following precautions:

#1. Reduce Your Speed and Increase Your Distance

By slowing your speed, you will increase the distance between you and the other driver which allows for a greater reaction time if an accident occurs.

#2. Keep Your Eyes on the Road

In popular vacation spots in Florida, the chance of multiple drivers under the influence on the road increases immensely. Don’t allow yourself to be so distracted by a dangerous driver that you become a danger yourself.

#3. Take Note of the Impaired Driver’s License Plate

When you see a possible intoxicated driver on the road or witness an accident, take note of the license plate of the vehicle. If you have a passenger in the vehicle, have them write down:

• The license plate number
• A description of the vehicle
• The location

Report any erratic driving habits to local law enforcement.

Driving Tips for Spring Break

When you are traveling, always check the weather conditions and make sure that everyone in the vehicle is buckled up.

Take note of these defensive driving tips to help avoid accidents:

• Be aware of your surroundings: Scan the road and check your mirrors often to look for dangerous drivers or potential obstacles.
• Follow the 3-to-4-second rule: In normal traffic and good weather conditions, ensure that you stay at least 3 or 4 seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. If it is nighttime or inclement weather, increase this distance.
• Monitor your speed: In addition to following the speed limit, if it is raining you should always drive slower.
• Don’t depend on other drivers: Watch out for vehicles that run red lights, change lanes without signaling, or refuse to let you merge. Not everyone on the road follows the rules.

The most important thing to remember while planning your spring break trip is safety. Plan the route before you leave, make sure someone knows your itinerary, and be aware of the signs of intoxicated drivers. And if you plan on drinking choose a designated driver. Most importantly, practice defensive driving and stay alert on the roads.

P.S. Always, always, wear your seatbelt.

Read More > Why You Should Never Put Your Feet Up on the Dashboard 

Plan Ahead for a Fun & Safe Spring Break

Keeping yourself safe while on spring break should be a priority. By being aware of your surroundings, avoiding dangerous drivers, and following the rules of the road you can help ensure that your trip is a safe and enjoyable one.

If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident with an intoxicated driver, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Mickey Keenan P.A. right away. We will provide compassionate legal representation to get you the justice and compensation that you deserve.

Your fight is our fight. Contact us for a case review today.